"GOODIE MOb", as it's written on their album covers, means the "GOOD DIE Mostly Over bullshit". Cee-Lo notes in a song off the Soul Food album that, "[If] you take out one 'O' it stands for 'GOD Is Every Man Of blackness.' "
Its members were all born in Atlanta, and the group is based there with the rest of the Dungeon Family, a collective which includes OutKast, Witch Doctor and P.A. (Parental Advisory). Goodie was first heard reciting haunting politically charged poetry on several songs from OutKast's first album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik. His reputation as a poet, thinker and social commentator is legendary in the southern hip-hop community.
Cee-Lo was the most visible member of the group prior to his departure in 2000 due in part to his distinct voice, while Big Gipp has made several rounds on other Dungeon Family members' albums, and T-Mo and Khujo form a duo within the group called The Lumberjacks.
Discography
Soul Food (1995)
Goodie Mob's debut was the Gold-certified album Soul Food in (1995). Produced by Organized Noize and critically acclaimed, the album went gold. It was on this album that the phrase Dirty South was actually coined, with a song of that same title. This album touched on many social and political issues such as racism, discrimination, geo-politics, and gentrification. Although the album dealt with such heavy issues, some songs still carried a lighter tone, such as "Soul Food," in which the crew expressed their love for home cooked meals. Along with Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, this album put Atlanta's rap scene on the map.
Still Standing (1998)
The Mob's sophomore release was Still Standing in 1998, on which they continued their tendency towards social commentary, and Cee-Lo's penchant for singing began to show through more. The album was also produced by Organize Noize, except for contributions by DJ Muggs (which would lead to Goodie Mob's contribution on Soul Assassins I) and Mr. DJ. During this period the group made a cameo appearance in the film Mystery Men, with Cee-Lo crediting himself by his birth name, Thomas Callaway (though he refers to himself as "Carlito Green" in the liner notes). Still Standing was the group's second gold-selling effort. On the front and back covers, the letter "O" in "Mob" contained a chilling silhouette of a hanged man in the center.
World Party (1999)
Feeling pressure from the increasing popularity and sales of their fellow Dungeon Family group OutKast, Goodie Mob decided to sign with Arista Records for their third album. The record veered away from their gritty style that permeated their successful previous releases, instead incorporating lighter beats and party related subject matter, which many fans perceived as selling out in an attempt for mainstream popularity. The social tone which had pervaded their earlier releases was absent; one track on the album, "All A's," was criticized for reportedly containing homophobic lyrics. During production, unhappy with the project's direction, Cee-Lo abruptly left to pursue a solo career. Arista dropped the group following poor sales of the album.
One Monkey Don't Stop No Show (2004)
The fourth album from Goodie, not featuring Cee-Lo, was something of a return to their earlier style, though fans were unhappy with the lack of Cee-Lo's presence. Many thought the "monkey" referenced in the title and shown on the cover was a reference to their prodigal groupmate, though the group claims it actually represents the music industry. Released the following year, Cee-Lo's second solo album Cee-Lo Green... is the Soul Machine featured a song called "When We Were Friends," which many also took for a diss to his former group.
Livin' Life As Lumberjacks (2005)
One Monkey's poor reception led Big Gipp to briefly leave the group as well, and T-Mo and Khujo released an album under the name The Lumberjacks called Livin' Life As Lumberjacks. The album continued the trend of somewhat lessened social commentary, getting into the crunk style that by then had pervaded Atlanta's music scene. Though Cee-Lo was still absent, Big Gipp appeared twice on the album to form the trio once again on the tracks Superfriends and 24/7/365.
Possible Reunion
It has been reported that all four Goodie Mob members are back on good terms and have reentered the studio to release a brand new album. Cee-Lo and Big Gipp have both referenced this in multiple interviews. No release date has been set, nor any details concerning the possible album released.
The four members recently appeared on stage together on October 1, 2006 following a Gnarls Barkley show, stating that they were back together or at least on good terms. No details were given concerning a possible reunion album at the time.
Frontline
Goodie Mob Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Frontline
Live from the frontline peep the signs of the time
Anarchy confusion, still looting, still shooting
Police abusing still no solution to the problems
Gang bangers killing toddlers
Chiraq a war zone, every day the same song
Can't stop what's written
They burned down Wendy's
They martyring criminals
Shit getting pathetic
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
Understand the master plan
Time so short, walk on water
Raised in the Styx, holy man
Pennies and quarters
We shuffle, we tyrants, the devil man
The youngins they killas
They martyr's, the shooters, the trash man
Smoke bombs, fireworks, trunk full of bodies
Racewar party, live from the frontline
Rubber bullets flying, Corona in the air
Give a fuck about dying, live from the frontline
Military artillery I'ma keep mine
The government lying, live from the frontline
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
You ain't on my level (no)
I got my dirty shovel (come on)
Will he stop never (never)
Shots at the devil (devil)
Get ya hair beveled (what?)
I'm a good fella (yeah)
On the front line it was by design (yeah)
They wanna take mines (come on)
And try to break lines
Walk with a soldier to the frontline (come on)
Gas in the air will make a brother choke (choke)
A poison in the smoke
A 12 throwing at ya folk no joke
Only way to see hope
Let's go, burn this motherfucker down to the floor
Let 'em know T-mo doing it from the frontline
Picket signs all out take mines
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
I oughta be a owner watching my team play from the sky box
One ice cube in my cognac in my socks
Red phone ringing need assist for the old man
The one wit gold teeth not the all gold man
Huh, I ain't been to war in ten summers
But I can still a sparrow right between your numbers
And there's an affiliated flag on the play
He said, "Let me do it Unc" Ok a bag on the way
Now David Banner told me, "Lo, keep your hands clean"
While you at keep your shirt and your pants clean
Cause further on up the ladder where we need your face card
Say less pay for it with your race card
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline
We live from the frontline (come on)
The lyrics to Goodie Mob's song "Frontline" depict a stark portrayal of the current state of society, particularly focusing on the challenges and injustices faced by marginalized communities. The opening lines emphasize the chaos and violence prevalent in the frontline, referencing anarchy, confusion, looting, and police abuse. The lyrics highlight the lack of solutions to systemic problems, such as gang violence and the constant cycle of tragedy in places like Chiraq (a slang term for Chicago). Despite the ongoing pandemic, the lyrics suggest that societal issues persist, with individuals continuing negative behaviors. The mentioning of burning down Wendy's and the martyring of criminals showcases a sense of hopelessness and desperation in the face of systemic issues.
The following verses delve deeper into the struggles faced by individuals, particularly the youth who are caught in a cycle of violence and destruction. The references to "holy man," "tyrants," and "the devil man" suggest a thematic exploration of spiritual and moral conflicts. The lyrics underscore the disruptive nature of the frontline, with imagery of smoke bombs, live ammunition, and a sense of impending disaster. The mention of the government's role in perpetuating unrest through military tactics and deceit adds layers to the narrative, hinting at deeper conspiracies and power struggles at play.
The chorus repeats the phrase "We live from the frontline" multiple times, emphasizing the constant state of conflict and turmoil that characterizes the experiences of those on the frontline. The repeated mention of Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem, tear gas, and Uncle Sam's involvement further illustrates the turbulent and violent atmosphere being depicted. The lyrics suggest a sense of defiance and resilience, as individuals navigate the frontline with determination and a sense of purpose, even in the face of overwhelming odds and opposition.
The final verses bring a more personal perspective to the narrative, with references to the singer's experiences and interactions with others on the frontline. The lyrics allude to themes of loyalty, survival, and the complexities of navigating a world rife with corruption and danger. The imagery of owning a team and watching from a skybox adds a layer of juxtaposition between power and vulnerability. The references to war, strategy, and maintaining cleanliness in the face of chaos paint a picture of individuals trying to navigate a world filled with challenges and uncertainties. Overall, the lyrics to "Frontline" by Goodie Mob provide a poignant commentary on the state of society, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of those fighting on the frontline.
Line by Line Meaning
Live from the frontline peep the signs of the time
Observing the current state of affairs, take notice of the significant changes and challenges around us.
Anarchy confusion, still looting, still shooting
A chaotic environment marked by disorder, where crimes like theft and violence are ongoing.
Police abusing still no solution to the problems
Law enforcement's misuse of power continues unabated, with no resolution to the systemic issues at hand.
Gang bangers killing toddlers
The violence perpetrated by gangs extends to innocent children, highlighting a tragic consequence of the ongoing conflict.
Chiraq a war zone, every day the same song
In Chicago, where violent crime is rampant, life feels like a constant struggle akin to warfare.
Even in a pandemic niggas still bullshitting
Despite a global health crisis, irrational behavior and negligence persist among some individuals.
Can't stop what's written
The fate and outcomes have already been determined, reflecting a sense of inevitability.
They burned down Wendy's
In the midst of unrest, people resort to destructive measures, with significant symbols of corporate America becoming targets.
They martyring criminals
Individuals involved in criminal activities are being idolized or romanticized due to their actions.
Shit getting pathetic
The current state of affairs is increasingly disappointing and disheartening.
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Destructive actions are rampant, with incendiary devices symbolizing rebellion in disorderly settings.
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
Protests are met with government-sanctioned violence, equating demonstrations with state oppression.
Understand the master plan
Recognize the larger scheme at play behind these social and political upheavals.
Time so short, walk on water
Life is fleeting, and one must take extraordinary actions to make a significant impact.
Raised in the Styx, holy man
Growing up in a tumultuous environment (akin to the river Styx) has forged a person with deep spiritual insight.
Pennies and quarters
Living in a state of economic struggle with limited financial resources.
We shuffle, we tyrants, the devil man
In navigating the harsh realities of life, some may become oppressive figures themselves.
The youngins they killas
The youth are increasingly engaged in violent activities, portraying a cycle of violence.
They martyr's, the shooters, the trash man
Individuals involved in violence are both glorified and dismissed; they carry burdens of their actions.
Smoke bombs, fireworks, trunk full of bodies
In the midst of chaos and aggressive protest actions, the grim reality of loss and violence emerges.
Racewar party, live from the frontline
The ongoing racial tensions lead to confrontations rooted deeply in systemic issues.
Rubber bullets flying, Corona in the air
As protestors face violent responses from law enforcement, the threat of a pandemic looms.
Give a fuck about dying, live from the frontline
In the face of danger, many express a disregard for personal safety while fighting for their cause.
Military artillery I'ma keep mine
The artist maintains personal defenses amid the chaos, illustrating a readiness for confrontation.
The government lying, live from the frontline
The deception from authorities continues amidst observable turmoil and unrest.
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
Destruction and rebellion persist, signified by the use of incendiary devices.
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
Protesters are met with counter-violence from the government, illustrating a stark conflict.
We live from the frontline
Our experiences and realities are shaped by the struggles witnessed in the midst of turmoil.
You ain't on my level (no)
Acknowledging the disparities between individual experiences, particularly in terms of struggle.
I got my dirty shovel (come on)
Equipped with tools for digging deeper into issues, even if it means embracing messy realities.
Will he stop never (never)
Determination to persist and never back down in the face of adversity.
Shots at the devil (devil)
Aiming to confront and resist evil practices or entities that perpetuate suffering.
Get ya hair beveled (what?)
A metaphor for preparation or alteration to face the world, ensuring one is ready.
I'm a good fella (yeah)
Identifying oneself as a person of good character navigating through a world filled with obstacles.
On the front line it was by design (yeah)
Being on the frontline is a purposeful choice in response to challenging circumstances.
They wanna take mines (come on)
Acknowledgment that others may seek to undermine or steal personal achievements and possessions.
And try to break lines
Efforts are made to disrupt or challenge established norms and boundaries.
Walk with a soldier to the frontline (come on)
Joining forces with others who are determined to make a stand in the face of adversity.
Gas in the air will make a brother choke (choke)
The presence of toxic elements in protests serves as a metaphor for the suffocating environment.
A poison in the smoke
The harmful effects of the confronting reality are deeply felt and pervasive.
A 12 throwing at ya folk no joke
Law enforcement (the '12' being police) is actively targeting individuals in a serious manner.
Only way to see hope
Finding a glimmer of optimism in dire circumstances often requires drastic actions.
Let's go, burn this motherfucker down to the floor
A rallying cry to radically change the harmful structures that perpetuate injustice.
Let 'em know T-mo doing it from the frontline
Proclaiming one's active engagement in confronting issues face-to-face.
Picket signs all out take mines
Mobilizing protests as a way to claim rights and address grievances directly.
I oughta be a owner watching my team play from the sky box
Dreaming of a position of power and success while observing others from an elevated perspective.
One ice cube in my cognac in my socks
A casual yet contemplative approach to life, enjoying the little pleasures amidst chaos.
Red phone ringing need assist for the old man
A metaphor for seeking help from a higher authority or experienced mentor in troubled times.
The one wit gold teeth not the all gold man
Distinguishing between appearances and substance, highlighting the importance of authenticity.
Huh, I ain't been to war in ten summers
Reflecting on a period of peace, yet recognizing ongoing battles that still require attention.
But I can still a sparrow right between your numbers
Possessing the capability to strike decisively, despite not being actively engaged in conflict for a while.
And there's an affiliated flag on the play
Recognizing that underlying affiliations and alliances come into play during disputes.
He said, 'Let me do it Unc' Ok a bag on the way
A colloquial request for permission to take action, signaling readiness to participate in the struggle.
Now David Banner told me, 'Lo, keep your hands clean'
Advice from a respected figure to maintain integrity and avoid getting embroiled in destructive actions.
While you at keep your shirt and your pants clean
Encouragement to maintain one's image and dignity despite difficult circumstances.
Cause further on up the ladder where we need your face card
Emphasizing the importance of reputation and connections for future success and influence.
Say less pay for it with your race card
Acknowledgment that being part of a minority can come with its own set of challenges, suggesting strategy in navigating these realities.
Molotov cocktails, chaos, mayhem
The ongoing state of disorder expressed through acts of violent resistance.
Picket signs, tear gas, courtesy of Uncle Sam
Demonstrating against systemic oppression while facing a harsh response from the government.
We live from the frontline
Our realities are shaped by the struggles and conflicts we confront directly.
Lyrics Β© BMG Rights Management
Written by: Cameron Gipp, Raymon Murray, Rico Wade, Robert Barnett, Thomas Callaway, Willie Knighton
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@Matt-fn6bx
Goodie is the reason I got out and got something(god,family,land,a house, and other assets)!!!! Thanks Goodie Mob!!
@DangerousDevilOfficial
People clearly sleeping on this at only 5,000 views... How the hell that even possible??? π―π―π―π―
@AlbertoGonzalez-tc2ju
Believe it!!!
@khujogoodiezone1
@@DangerousDevilOfficial Organic shit kinfolk!!
@jugg_king_josh5923
ππΎπ―
@djdeadpresidents
https://youtu.be/TyiQCZNypLI Breonna Taylor
@patt3054
Ppl don't know how classic this Group is
@durterebelz
FACTUAL. Cell Therapy is still relevant.
@chellet660
They so underrated it's sickening.
@Fyyt
I do, im 43..π¨π¦π¨π¦π¨π¦